RAIDERS French, Neldon Theo

John Robertson

Administrator
Staff member
  • SURNAME
French
  • FORENAME
Neldon Theo
  • UNIT
1 Raider Bn (Company A)
  • RANK
Corporal
  • NUMBER
294607
  • AWARD
Navy Cross
  • PLACE
Guadalcanal 1942
  • ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
KIA - see Roll of Honour
 

ROLL OF HONOUR:

https://www.specialforcesroh.com/index.php?threads/french-neldon-t.4362/

CITATION:

Navy Cross : The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Neldon T. French (294607), Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving with Company A, FIRST Marine Raider Battalion in action against enemy Japanese forces near the Matanikau River on Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands, on 8 - 9 October 1942. When his battalion moved into a defensive position along the Matanikau River, Corporal French and other members of his platoon bore the brunt of the heavy enemy assault against their hastily prepared positions. Approximately 150 Japanese, stealing through the dense jungle growth under cover of smoke, fiercely attacked the small group of Marines with automatic weapons, hand grenades, and bayonets. Fighting desperately in hand-to-hand combat against the overwhelming hostile force, Corporal French refused to be dislodged from his position and, after exacting a tremendous toll of the enemy, heroically died at his post. His indomitable fighting spirit and unyielding devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Board Serial: 01177 (July 30, 1943)
Born: at Benton County, Tennessee
Home Town: Camden, Tennessee

FINDAGRAVE:

https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/58311083/neldon-theo-french
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